Stile Antico's A Spanish Nativity

For its latest Christmas program, Stile Antico turns to the sensuous musical world of Renaissance Spain, drawing together an irresistible mix of rich polyphony and infectiously joyful folk dances. A superbly rich and luminous mass by Alonso Lobo, based on a motet by Guerrero and intended for performance at Toledo Cathedral, forms the program’s centerpiece. Interspersed between its movements are an exuberant ‘ensalada’ by Mateo Flecha, inviting us to be present at the nativity through the use of traditional dance rhythms, beautiful Christmas miniatures by Tomás Luis de Victoria, and classic villancicos, Spain’s answer to the traditional carol. And just as in Spain the feast of the Epiphany forms the climax of the Christmas season, so this enthralling selection is capped by a magnificent motet by Morales retelling the story of Herod and the Three Kings. About Stile Antico: ​Stile Antico is firmly established as one of the world’s most accomplished and innovative vocal ensembles. Working without a conductor, its twelve members have thrilled audiences throughout Europe and North America with their fresh, vibrant and moving performances of Renaissance polyphony. Its bestselling recordings on the Harmonia Mundi label have earned accolades including the Gramophone Award for Early Music, Diapason d’or de l’année, Edison Klassiek Award and Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik, and have received three Grammy® nominations.